Florida

State Farm ® Urges Floridians to Prepare for Hurricane Season 2012

The Hurricane season started on June 1 and runs through the end of November. The beginning of hurricane season is a good time for homeowners to review their insurance policies for adequate coverage on their property. It is important to have a clear understanding what your policies cover (both home and auto policies) and be prepared for what deductibles and exclusions your policy includes. Policyholders should consult with their agents and develop a complete understanding of the coverages they have purchased.

In addition to reviewing insurance policies, there are three things families should keep in mind leading into hurricane season – planning, preparing and protecting.

Plan

It’s always important for a family to have a plan for emergencies. Every family member must know what to do to stay safe. When a hurricane threatens, decide if your family will move to a safer place inland, go to a designated shelter or ride out the storm in your home. Make sure you stay in touch with local authorities to know the severity of the hurricane. You should also plan an escape route in case your family needs to evacuate.

Prepare

Your home should have a hurricane survival kit prepared for an emergency. It should include non-perishable food items, a first aid kit, a battery-operated radio, a flashlight, fresh batteries and drinking water (at least 1 gallon of water per person / per day for a minimum of 3 days). Also include other items you might need such as medications, prescription glasses, and your insurance information including a home inventory (keep in a waterproof bag).

To ensure your home is prepared, cover up windows and doors using hurricane shutters. If you do not have the shutters, cover your windows and doors with 3/4-inch plywood. Make sure your garage door is closed and anchored. Remember that serious hurricane damage can occur when wind and debris get into your house through a broken door or window.

Protect

If you decide to ride out the hurricane, protect yourself. If you do not need to evacuate the area, stay indoors away from windows or glass doors. Put as many walls between you and the storm as possible. If you do not have a basement, go to a closet or a bathroom. A purchase of tarps or plastic sheeting may be advantageous.

If you need to leave the area, make sure you go directly to the shelter. Take your survival kit and lock all doors and windows before you go. Let your relatives or friends know where you plan to be and give them your insurance agent's information.

Those who have a hurricane plan do much better than those who don't. Taking a moment to plan today may help you avoid last-minute panic. It could save your home and your family.

For additional information on protecting your home, auto and family from a hurricane, please visit any of following resources:

1. The State Farm Disaster Response
2. Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)
3. Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS)
4. American Red Cross